Weekday Worship: Significance of Weekly Puja in Hinduism
In the rich tapestry of Hinduism, each day of the week is dedicated to specific deities. Scriptures prescribe unique rituals and worship practices for each day, linking individuals with divine energies. It is believed that aligning one’s prayers and rituals with the days of the week brings auspiciousness and swift fruition of desires. Let’s delve into the significance of worship on different days of the week in Hinduism.
Days and Deities
1. Monday – Worship of Lord Shiva and Chandra (Moon)
Mondays are devoted to Lord Bholenath, Shiva, and also to the Moon. Performing Jalabhishek (water offering) on a Shivalinga on Mondays is said to alleviate mental stress and fulfill desires.
2. Tuesday – Reverence to Lord Hanuman and Mangal (Mars)
Mangalwar, or Tuesday, sees the veneration of Lord Hanuman and Mangal Grah. Observing fasts and presenting offerings to Hanuman is believed to ward off obstacles and nullify the malefic effects of Mars.
3. Wednesday – Adoration of Lord Ganesha and Budh (Mercury)
Wednesdays are dedicated to Lord Ganesha and the planet Mercury. Offering Durva grass to Ganesha and donating green gram on this day is thought to enhance wisdom and academic pursuits.
4. Thursday – Homage to Lord Vishnu and Guru (Jupiter)
Thursday is the day for paying respects to Lord Vishnu and Guru Brihaspati. Offering yellow items like bananas, saffron, and chickpeas on this day is believed to bring marital bliss and career advancements.
5. Friday – Worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Shukra (Venus)
Fridays are for venerating Goddess Lakshmi and the planet Venus. Performing puja on this day is said to invite prosperity, beauty, and fame into one’s life.
6. Saturday – Devotion to Lord Shani (Saturn)
Saturdays are dedicated to Lord Shani. Worshipping Shani Dev with sesame seeds and oil is believed to mitigate the adverse effects of Sade Sati and Dhaiya.
7. Sunday – Admiration for Lord Surya (Sun)
Sundays are auspicious for the worship of Lord Surya. Offering water, flowers, and rice in a copper vessel to the Sun is considered beneficial for self-esteem, courage, and vitality.
Benefits of Weekday Worship
Observing weekly rituals is more than a religious practice; it is a way to align oneself with cosmic energies, ensuring a harmonious life. Each day offers unique advantages, from mental peace to material gains, fostering a holistic well-being.
In the intricate tapestry of Hindu rituals, weekday worship stands as a beacon of spiritual connection and earthly prosperity. By understanding and observing these rituals, individuals can tap into the divine rhythm of the cosmos, enriching their lives with blessings and positivity.